JOB DESCRIPTION:

• The surgical assistant/first assistant is responsible for assisting the surgeon under direct and indirect supervision throughout preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative duties and procedures as needed.
• The surgical assistant/first assistant provide aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient.
• The preoperative phase includes, but is not limited to safe positioning, assist circulator and anesthesia provider in preparation of the patient.
• The intraoperative phase includes, but not limited to performing specific tasks according to individual surgeon preference utilizing appropriate techniques.
• The postoperative phase includes, but not limited to, application of specific dressing material, assist in transfer of patient and following patient to recovery if needed or directed by surgeon.
• Providing visualization of the operative site by the following, but not limited to: Appropriate placement and securing of retractors with or without padding.
• Packing with sponges. Digital manipulation of tissue. Suctioning, irrigating, or sponging. Manipulation of suture materials (e.g. loops, tags, running sutures).
• Proper use of body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the surgeons view. Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis.
• Permanent: clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissue; tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue; applying hemostatic clips; placing local hemostatic agents. Temporary: applying tourniquets and demonstrating awareness of the indications/contraindications for use with knowledge of side effects of extended use; applying vessel loops; applying non-crushing clamps; applying direct digital pressure.
• Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes. Utilizing running or interrupted subcutaneous sutures with absorbable or non-absorbable material.
• Utilizing subcuticular closure technique with or without adhesive skin closure strips. Closing skin with method indicated by surgeon (suture, staples, etc.).
• Postoperative subcutaneous injection of local anesthetic agent as directed by the surgeon. Selecting and applying appropriate wound dressing: liquid or spray occlusive materials, absorbent material affixed with tape of circumferential wrapping; immobilizing dressing (soft or rigid).
• Familiar with common positions related to the procedure and will be able to use the equipment necessary to provide the position: Fracture tables, Head stabilizers, Body stabilizer, C-arm extensions, and Any other equipment needed.
• Upon completion of the procedure, the patient shall be evaluated for any possible damage from positioning which will include assessment of the skin.
• The surgeon shall convey the exact position that will give the best exposure for the surgical procedure.
• The surgical assistant will carry out this order.
• Consideration will be given to the patient's comfort and safety. Points of pressure shall be padded: elbows, heels, knees, eyes, face, and axillary region. Circulation shall not be impaired. Nerve damage shall be guarded against.
  
  MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• Graduate and /or certification from surgical assisting programs accredited through ABSA, NSAA, or ARC/STSA. 2 years of surgical assistant/first assistant experience is required. Some areas may require specialized experience. (i.e. in cardiothoracic surgery, two years of directly related experience is required)..
  
  PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium):
• 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.
  
  ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
• Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock , Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation , Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.